Press release
March 12, 2020
Paul Zahra has been appointed Chief Executive Officer of the Australian Retailers Association
The Australian Retailers Association (ARA) Council is pleased to announce the appointment of Paul Zahra as the new Chief Executive Officer (CEO). Paul will take on the role in May 2020.
Paul is a well-respected career retailer, whose previous leadership roles included the CEO and CEO of David Jones and senior roles at David Jones, Officeworks and Target.
Rowan Hodge, President of ARA, said: "We are delighted to have a Paul Caliber leader lead ARA who is committed to bringing the industry together and creating" One Voice "for small, medium and large retailers.
“Paul has a deep understanding of retail and the problems and opportunities that the industry and our members face. His integrative and progressive leadership style, retail and digital expertise, broad networks, experience in transformation, and strong vision for ARA and the future of retail will be invaluable as the company evolves.
Mr. Hodge also paid tribute to outgoing Executive Director Russell Zimmerman and said: “We thank Russell for his commitment to the ARA and our members. We wish him all the best for his future endeavors. "
Paul Zahra said: “More than 1.3 million working Australians are employed in retail. The sector is Australia's largest employer for young people, and well over half of the retail workers are women. Retail offers diverse and flexible career opportunities, from your first job to a job in the areas of data analysis, merchandising or supply chain and logistics.
“In the past twenty years, the disruption and transformation of the sector has been significant due to the constant changes in technology and consumer behavior. However, what excites me is the untold story of innovation, be it in store formats, on online marketplaces or in the many small companies that started their lives in someone's living room.
“This sector has the ability to adapt and evolve, connect people and communities, and make dreams come true. I am optimistic about what lies ahead and look forward to supporting and standing up for our members as we face challenges, embrace change and evolve with the customers we serve. "
Source: Australian Retailers Association.
